ABSTRACT:
Antioxidants are intimately involved in the prevention of cellular damage - the common pathway for cancer, aging, and a variety of diseases. Several berries, fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, drinks and spices have been found to be high in total antioxidants. The body relies on obtaining its anti-oxidants from food and other supplements. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules containing one or more unpaired electrons in their outermost shell and the only way of neutralizing them and their harmful effects is through anti-oxidants which help in the break down of chemical reactions that cause transfer of electrons from healthy cells into free radicals. In view of the immense medicinal importance it’s an effort to compile all the information reported on its mechanism, process, defense and methods of assessing antioxidant activities. The present review is an attempt to generate interest among the masses regarding its immense potential in preventing and treating several common diseases.